USMNT captain Christian Pulisic is one of the few American players who have pursued their senior career solely in Europe. Having joined Borussia Dortmund’s youth team in 2015, Pulisic is currently playing for Italy’s AC Milan, marking his ninth year in Europe. The US striker also chanced to ply his trade for the Premier League heavyweight Chelsea. However, it was not easy for him to successfully navigate the hostile currents in Europe. As Pulisic recalls, even his teammates hated the idea of having an American player on their roster.

The AC Milan star and Milan legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic came together to speak about the Italian club, and the next FIFA World Cup, among other things on the CBS Mornings talk show. Christian Pulisic instantly recalled the harsh treatment he received from Europeans during his early club career. “I’ve been in Europe for over 10 years now which sounds crazy. It’s difficult in the beginning. I think people definitely look at this guy and say ‘You know he’s an American guy, I don’t want him taking my spot over here,’” said Christian Pulisic.

Thereafter,  the Team USA captain revealed how he overlooked and overcame the hostility he was subject to. “You have to go in with a strong mentality, like [Zlatan] talked about. I think that’s been one of my strengths. Not caring what people think, going out and showing people what I can do. That’s what I’ve done,” the US striker added. Besides, the US skipper also admitted to having a cultural shock in Italy when he started with AC Milan last season.

Christian Pulisic had to overcome adversities in the AC Milan camp as well

When Christian Pulisic completed his move to AC Milan, he had already established himself as a heavyweight forward in European football. Yet, his initial days in San Siro were not the ones a superstar would have wanted. “At the beginning of last season, I remember when I didn’t speak a word of Italian you go into the first training sessions and the coach is yelling things,” Pulisic added.

Anyhow, the US striker quickly proved his worth in the Milan camp. He registered 15 goals and 11 assists in 50 games during his first season with the Italian powerhouse. The USMNT skipper is also contractually tied to Milan till 2027. Now, before Milan begins its hunt for the Seria A title, it embarks on a US tour, facing Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. Indeed a fine pre-season run for Pulisic to captivate his home crowd by performing at his peak for European heavyweights.